Hello, my name is Helen and I am a counsellor in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and adhere to its Ethical Framework. I have also undergone enhanced checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service.
I work as a relational integrative counsellor and am trained in a number of therapeutic models such as person-centred approach, psychodynamic, transactional analysis, CBT and I draw from these counselling theories, as appropriate, and integrate them to meet the needs of each of my clients.
Working relationally is based upon the value of human connection and recognises that healthy relationships are fundamental for people to be able to develop, thrive and for ongoing personal wellbeing. Therefore, the therapeutic relationship which we develop together, where you feel it is safe for you to explore your feelings and heal from distress, will always be at the heart of your counselling experience with me.
I work in a flexible way and tailor the counselling to ensure that you get the most benefit from your therapeutic experience. I have a strong commitment to working with you to make sure that I fully understand your expectations of counselling and what it is you would like us to focus on. I will bring my authentic and unique approach to you and your life.
As a counsellor, I am not exempt from life struggles. In my teens, after a close bereavement, I was plagued with anxiety, which I overcame. Later, it was my own pain following a serious car accident that led to me leaving my teaching career and moving into life as a counsellor.
I wholeheartedly believe that kindness, compassion and understanding are the cornerstones of life and that everyone has the potential to heal and find their own happiness. I will provide a safe and confidential space, to listen and really hear your story and experiences, without any judgement. I will support you to explore, on a deeper level, what is happening in your life and what you feel you would like to change.
I am a warm, friendly, congruent person and a good listener; with strong empathic understanding and vast experience from my own personal life. Above all, I will put passion, investment and my heart into our therapeutic work together. I love supporting people and seeing the positive and fulfilling changes that counselling psychotherapy can bring about.
Areas of expertise and interest
Over the years, I have developed expertise in counselling individuals who are troubled by anxiety and depression, stress, low self-esteem or have experienced a life crises such as a bereavement, a relationship breakdown or a traumatic event.
As a school counsellor and teacher & SENDCo prior to this, I have a specialism in working with children and young people, including those who are neurodiverse, and with parents.
As a former teacher, I feel I have particular insight into this career and its demands.
Adult counselling
Children and young people's counselling
Teacher counselling
Qualifications & Experience
Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling & Psychotherapy
Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling Skills
BA (Hons) with Qualified Teacher Status
Alongside my private practice, I have worked with the following counselling services:
Aireborough Family Services - Counselling adults within the Aireborough (Leeds) locality.
Just'B' Schools' Service - Counselling children and young people.
Contact me for a free initial consultation
helen@heartofharrogatecounselling.co.uk
07563 179 031
Ashgarth Court, Harrogate, HG2 9LE.
